Beating your biggest rival is always a jolt for morale. This is true for both a program/franchise and a fanbase combined. Everyone closely involved with the Kentucky basketball program knows the importance of beating Louisville. In most years, picking up a win over the Cardinals would call for celebration. However, this season is different.
As of its current state, Louisville as a program is as down as it has been in a long time. For John Calipari and the Wildcats, picking up a rivalry win, though a positive thing, is not enough for a team that is in need of quality wins. For Kentucky, those opportunities have simply slipped through their fingers.
As previously mentioned, the Cardinals are as down as it has been in many years. However, although different circumstances, the same can be said for Kentucky. Putting things into context, Calipari brought one of the most experienced teams of his tenure in Lexington, with a strong freshman class to boot.
With that came big expectations this season. Of course, that isn’t out of the norm when it concerns Kentucky basketball. After what has been a very underwhelming stretch of years now, which included a losing season and an early tournament exit just last season, this season had hope for a change.
Then comes Michigan State, Gonzaga, UCLA, and finally another disappointing showing to open up the SEC schedule against Missouri. As we now reach the meat and potatoes of the schedule the Wildcats have one meaningful win. With that, that win which was over Michigan is looking more and more insignificant as the season moves along.
So where does the season go from here? This team is still in regrouping mode. There is still much to be sorted out. The offense is still in dire need of a remodel, and the rotation still needs to be solidified. Quite honestly, there are more questions than answers, even this far into the season.
One thing is for sure, these questions must be resolved quickly if this season is to be salvaged. Now, of course, let it be said that there is still time to turn this ship around if you are John Calipari. However, as the Wildcats enter into conference play the time is definitely now to put the pieces together.
With matchups against Tennessee, Alabama, Kansas, and Arkansas among others coming up down the road, there is still time to pick up quality wins. However, these are also more potential losses unless Calipari can get figure things out with his team. This season is far from over for this Kentucky Wildcats team. However, if this season has any chance to still be a success, there is much work left to be done.
